Why Do I Write Poetry?

I like words. I like the way they can be mixed with other ones to make a sound soup or a puzzle or something that sings and resonates with me during the day. Writing is hedonism, too. It's very personal, and private. Not all solitary pleasure-making is auto-erotic, you know. I don't care if anyone dislikes how I say things -- although I am careful to watch my language… That would be letting the cat out of the bag. I am careful not to let my true feelings about religion or politics or popular culture or rap music or media sweethearts or ignorant bozos and bozettes get free on the page that others might see. Writing is cheap. It costs nothing. You can borrow a pencil from the cashier at the counter, or the guy at the next table. You can write on napkins. You can write on the edge of the magazine pages or the newspaper that someone left on the other table. Writing doesn't require you to buy paint and brushes and turpentine and an easel and canvas and have a room with good North light.